Switch Leader Podcast

Vision + Series Overview: Fakers or Followers

In this kickoff episode of the new Switch semester, Josh Baldwin and James Meehan set the tone for what’s ahead by casting vision, challenging leaders, and previewing the first Switch series: Fakers or Followers. They unpack the difference between cultural Christianity and true discipleship, the danger of comfort, and why small group leaders aren’t “just volunteers”—they’re spiritual leaders with lasting influence. Whether you’re a Switch veteran or just starting out, we're glad you're with us!

Carrying Stones: Miracles, Memories, and the Work Ahead

In this heartfelt episode, Josh and Kaitlyn unpack the powerful imagery found in Joshua 4—when God commands the Israelites to pick up stones from the middle of the Jordan River as a lasting memorial. Together, they dive deep into what it means for us today: sometimes we’re asked to pick up small stones—simple, faithful steps—and sometimes we’re called to lift something heavy, something that stretches our faith.

 

You’ll hear honest reflections about how God’s tangible presence often meets us on the other side of obedience, and how the act of remembering His faithfulness isn’t just about looking back—it’s preparation for trusting Him again in the future.

 

This episode is a rally cry to look back at all God has done this past school year, to dream with faith about what’s to come, and to carry those stories forward—not just for ourselves, but for the next generation.

 

So as summer begins, take time to reflect, remember, and recommit to being a leader who carries the stones—and tells the stories—of God’s faithfulness.

Summer is a Shift, Not a Shutdown

In this episode, Josh Baldwin sits down with Kennadi Foster, Youth Pastor at the Catoosa campus, to explore what it looks like to lead well while resting well during the summer. As the school year ends and rhythms change, many youth leaders face the tension between resting well and staying relationally engaged with students. Josh and Kennadi discuss how summer isn’t a time to shut down—it’s a time to shift gears.

 

You’ll hear practical ideas for staying connected with students during the break, ways to pursue spiritual rest and renewal, and why maintaining momentum over the summer matters more than we think. Whether it’s planning low-key hangouts, encouraging students in their faith, or simply showing up with intentionality, this conversation will equip you to embrace the season and lead with purpose.

Series Overview: Wisdom Vs. The World

In this episode, Josh Baldwin is joined by the Director of Switch Content, James Meehan, to unpack the heart behind Switch’s final teaching series of the semester: Wisdom Vs. The World. Together, they explore how students can pursue Godly wisdom during the summer by engaging with three powerful books of the Bible—Psalms, Ecclesiastes, and Proverbs. With practical insight, humor (yes, including a coffee mug with James’ face), and spiritual encouragement, this episode equips leaders to challenge their students to start and end each day with God’s Word. Don’t miss this conversation about how to help students grow in righteousness, purpose, and discipline during the months that often threaten spiritual drift.

Here Come the 6th Graders!

In this episode of the Switch Leader Podcast, host Josh Baldwin sits down with Dustin Wells to unpack the pivotal transition from 5th to 6th grade—and how it shapes the faith and future of your students. Dustin shares practical strategies for engaging 6th graders, partnering with parents, and helping students build an identity grounded in Christ. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just stepping into Switch, this conversation will give you the tools and inspiration you need to make this a meaningful and welcoming transition for our new 6th graders. 

The Christian F-Word: Why "I'm Fine" Isn't Enough

How often do your students respond with a hollow “I’m fine”? In this episode, Josh Baldwin and Kaitlyn Caffrey dive deep into the dangerous surface-level answers we often accept in ministry—and why pushing past them is essential. They explore how cultivating emotional honesty, modeling vulnerability, and asking the next question can lead to deeper discipleship and life change.

 

You’ll walk away with practical strategies for building trust, creating space for real conversations, and partnering with parents to support students holistically. Whether you’re leading a Switch group or mentoring students in another setting, this episode will challenge and equip you to pursue heart-level transformation.

Turning Belief Into Behavior

In this episode of the Switch Leader Podcast, host Josh Baldwin is joined by Dustin Wells, Youth Pastor at the Rio Rancho Campus, to unpack the heart behind Switch Fights Human Trafficking—a powerful annual event that raised nearly $95,000 across Life.Church campuses. Together, they explore how students can take what they experience on a big night like this and turn it into a lifestyle of active faith. From scripture to strategy, they share practical ways leaders can inspire students to move beyond belief into daily acts of love and service.

Series Overview: Faith That Works

In this episode of the Switch Leader Podcast, host Josh Baldwin sits down with James Meehan, Director of Switch Content, to unpack the heart behind the new series: Faith That Works. Together, they explore what it means to lead students toward a faith that’s more than words—a faith that transforms everyday life. James brings clarity and passion as he shares practical ways leaders can help students navigate doubt, deepen their relationship with Jesus, and discover how true faith shows up in how they live, love, and lead.

 

Whether you’re a seasoned youth leader or just getting started, this episode will equip and inspire you to guide your students into a more meaningful and active walk with God.

Life Beyond Switch: Are You Preparing Them?

What happens when students leave Switch? In this powerful episode, host Josh Baldwin and Moore Youth Pastor Sam Groeschel call out the hard truth: 70% of young people walk away from their faith after high school. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Learn how you, as a Switch Leader, can flip the script by building long-term relationships, challenging students to own their faith, and preparing them for real life beyond Wednesday nights. You’ll leave this conversation with practical steps, fresh energy, and a renewed sense of mission to lead students toward a faith that lasts a lifetime.

Gen Alpha Is Here: What It Means for Youth Ministry

This week on the Switch Leader Podcast, host Josh Baldwin sits down with Camry Rowan and Izzy Loranger for a fascinating and practical conversation about the future of youth ministry as Gen Alpha steps into Switch. Together, they explore the differences between Gen Z and Gen Alpha, why today’s students are more skeptical yet spiritually curious, and how leaders can adapt while staying grounded in the unchanging truth of Jesus.

 

You’ll hear insights from youth ministry in real time—like what it’s like leading a sixth-grade small group today, how slang reveals cultural shifts, and how leaders can balance grace and truth when walking with students through real questions and doubts. Whether you’re a seasoned youth pastor or a brand-new small group leader, this conversation will encourage you, challenge you, and equip you to reach the next generation with authenticity and intentionality.

 

🔑 Topics covered:

• What Gen Alpha is really like

• Why students are asking harder questions earlier

• The impact of media and skepticism on young faith

• How to build trust and speak truth that sticks

 

🎧 Tune in and share with your Switch team as we prepare to lead this next generation with clarity, confidence, and Christ at the center.

 

Check out this resource: Switch Leader Resources